Queensland opener Burns will be available for 10 of the team’s County Championship Division Two fixtures.

All-rounder Maxwell can feature in all three formats, having opted out of the IPL, and is expected to play a maximum of five championship games with a view to reclaiming a spot in the Test side for the Ashes.

Burns, who has also enjoyed spells with Leicestershire and Middlesex, said: “Lancashire is a huge county with a fine history in the game and I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to play for the Red Rose next year.

Glenn Maxwell gets a chance to aid Test cause with a stint in England.Source:Getty Images

“I’m determined to put in some match-winning contributions for the side and help Lancashire push for promotion at the first time of asking.”

Maxwell, who has played seven Tests, 87 ODIs and 57 Twenty20s for Australia, added: “Coming over to England early next year will also help me acclimatise to conditions ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup, which I am incredibly excited about.

“I still have aspirations to play Test cricket for Australia so I felt it was important that I play some first-class cricket whilst I’m over in England.

“There are some very talented young players in the Lancashire squad and I can’t wait to join up with the lads in April and contribute towards a successful season in all competitions.”